Teen Internship Grant Program

WSL Teen Internship Grant Program


Supported by funding provided by the federal Institute of Museum and Library Services administered by the Library Services and Technology Act, through the Washington State Library, a division of the Office of the Secretary of State.

What is the Washington State Library's Teen Internship Grant Program?

The Washington State Library (WSL) is offering a limited number of grants to public and tribal libraries in Washington State to hire and mentor a teen intern during summer 2025. This grant opportunity is inspired by PLA's Inclusive Internship Initiative and the State Library of Oregon's Teen Internship Grant program.

Libraries may request up to $5,000 to fund the salary, benefits, and accompanying project costs for one teen intern during summer 2025. The intern will be mentored by a designated library staff person, and over the course of their internship they will plan and implement an interest-driven project. Library mentors will receive training and support, and teens will have opportunities to connect with other teen interns and participate in virtual learning activities, facilitated by the Washington State Library. 

During the course of their internship, teens will learn about what it's like to work in a library, plan and implement an interest-driven project with support from their mentor, and gain skills and connections to further their learning and goals.

Library mentors will receive mentorship and Connected Learning training, participate in a community of practice with other mentors, develop supervisory skills, and more.